“And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4
Honor is a character trait that demonstrates itself on all levels of authority. Honor will value and respect our leaders in authority over us. Honor values and respects our peers. Honor values and respects the people underneath authority. We all would like to be considered to have worth and to be treated with respect.
Children are under the authority of their parents and their teachers. Young children are inexperienced, they lack much training, and they are yet to be educated. Small children have little strength, underdeveloped skills, and typically do not generate much income. However, the value that children have is not based on what they do or what they have, but on who they are and on who they will become.
When children were being brought to Jesus for blessing, the disciples tried to deny them access. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Then Jesus laid His hands on them transferred the anointing in blessing. Jesus valued those kids and showed them honor.
Here are ten ways we can honor our children:
Set standards for them. Kids want boundaries and attainable expectations. They want the security of knowing what you want from them and for them. The want to know what to aim for and what is pleasing to you.
Discipline and teach them. Give them the knowledge and resources to succeed.
Communicate with kindness. Use words, expression, and tone.
Listen to them. Get on their level and look into their eyes. Don’t devalue their true feelings, emotions, and thoughts.
Give them your time, both in quantity and quality.
Share responsibility. Let them contribute something.
Tell them, “I love you.” Verbalize your love and honor.
Show them “I love you.” Actions speak louder than words.
Provide for them. Meet their needs.
Protect them. Give them security, yet a freedom to live.
We teach our kids they have value when we honor them. We also teach them to respect others by honoring them first. In the same way that God treats us with worth, we should esteem our children.
Application: If you have kids, do something to show them honor today.